Heavy Rains Disrupt MSRTC, BEST Bus Services
Heavy rains cripple public transport, 7,820 trips cancelled, 98 routes diverted
Heavy rainfall has severely impacted public transportation across Maharashtra, affecting both the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and BEST bus services. On Monday, the MSRTC cancelled 7,820 bus trips over the last two days, resulting in an estimated revenue loss of ₹2.3 crore.
In Mumbai, the BEST diverted 98 bus routes due to waterlogging, uprooted trees, and road blockages. The civic transport undertaking also reported seven bus breakdowns and 135 buses developing monsoon-related technical faults, disrupting services for thousands of commuters. The Mumbai–Pune Corridor and Palghar Division were the worst affected areas.
According to MSRTC officials, incessant rain and flooded roads forced the suspension of bus services on several routes, particularly across Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Palghar, and Pune divisions. The Mumbai–Pune bus corridor was among the worst affected, while the Palghar division witnessed the maximum disruption due to widespread waterlogging and poor road conditions.
Heavy rainfall also delayed the arrival of staff at the corporation's Mumbai Central headquarters, affecting the timely compilation of operational data from various divisions. A control room has been activated to monitor the situation and coordinate services across affected regions. Passengers have been advised to check the latest service status with their nearest depot before commencing their journey.
In Mumbai, BEST buses were diverted at several locations after heavy rain triggered flooding, uprooted trees, fallen chambers, and road obstructions. Major disruptions were reported at Andheri Subway, Malad Subway, Vidyavihar, Bhandup, Goregaon, Colaba, Mazgaon, and several other areas, with buses operating through alternate routes until roads were cleared.
Along with route diversions, BEST recorded 135 buses developing monsoon-related faults, including starting trouble, wiper defects, and other non-conformity issues, while seven buses broke down during the day. Officials said restoration work continued throughout the day, and services were gradually normalized wherever conditions improved.
Both MSRTC and BEST are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation and have urged commuters to check service updates before traveling. The disruptions have caused significant inconvenience to thousands of commuters who rely on these bus services for their daily travel. The situation is being closely watched, and efforts are being made to restore normal services as soon as possible.
The impact of the heavy rainfall on public transportation has highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and disaster management in the state. The authorities are working to ensure that the services are restored to normal, and commuters are advised to plan their travel accordingly. With the monsoon season expected to continue, the situation will be closely monitored, and necessary measures will be taken to minimize disruptions to public transportation.
